Air conditioning is often only thought about during those moments of sweltering heat or when it suddenly stops working. Yet, beyond its immediate comfort, air conditioning has an intriguing history. From its unexpected origins to the surprising number of homes without it, air conditioning has played a pivotal role in modern living standards. Dive into these six captivating air conditioning facts that highlight its significance beyond just cooling our spaces.
1. AC Has Its Origins in the Newspaper Industry
The invention of the air conditioner is credited to Willis Carrier, who, before his name became synonymous with home cooling systems, was an engineer at the Sackett-Wilhelms Lithographing & Publishing Company in Brooklyn, New York. Facing challenges with ink alignment and drying due to humidity, Carrier innovated by using cool water to condition the air, inadvertently inventing the modern air conditioner in 1902. This innovation not only solved the printing issues but also laid the groundwork for air conditioning as we know it today.
2. Not Every New Home is Built with AC
Despite the widespread use of air conditioning, it’s surprising to learn that not all new homes are equipped with an air conditioning unit. In the USA, about 7% of homes built in 2017 lacked air conditioning. The figure is even more startling in Canada, where 45% of new single-family homes did not include air conditioning despite the country’s significant temperature variations throughout the year.
3. Movie Theatres Were an Early Adopter
One of the first public spaces to adopt air conditioning was movie theatres, particularly during the 1930s. This strategic move was aimed at drawing people indoors during the summer to enjoy films in a cool environment, contributing to the phenomenon of the “summer blockbuster.” The success of this strategy is evident in the continued popularity of heading to the cinema to escape the heat and enjoy a big hit.
4. There Were Cooling Methods Before Air Conditioning
Before the advent of air conditioning, people employed various ingenious methods to stay cool. These included living underground, constructing homes with thick stone walls for better heat conduction, and harvesting ice blocks. Each method had its drawbacks, from the logistical challenges of ice storage to the inefficiency of stone as a thermal insulator. That must be why people went on to invent better ways to deal with the heat!
5. Air Conditioning Changed Work Schedules
Air conditioning has significantly influenced work patterns, particularly in industries that traditionally took summer breaks due to the heat. With the widespread adoption of air conditioning, these seasonal breaks came to an end, ushering in the expectation of year-round work. This shift has had a profound impact on productivity and the structure of the modern workplace. Thanks a lot, AC!
6. The Annual Energy Footprint of AC is Staggering
The energy consumption of air conditioning is substantial, with the amount used each year capable of powering the entire continent of Africa for the same duration. This fact alone illustrates the significant energy demand air conditioning places on resources, highlighting the importance of efficient and sustainable tech.
Choose B&B ClimateCare for your AC Needs
Air conditioning is more than just a modern convenience; it’s a fascinating subject filled with unexpected history and facts. Whether you’re in need of a new air conditioner, maintenance, or emergency repairs, B&B ClimateCare offers reliable products and services to ensure your home remains comfortable.
Contact us today to discuss your air conditioning needs and discover more about how this remarkable technology can enhance your living environment.
